Chess wrote:
Thanks for the heads up! I didn't know it was already on the website.
It does look like a great option for the Hobie Tandem Island. I just see two 'minor' problems: it doesn't look like there is a mounting option for the TI and, if I understood correctly the technical specifications, it might not be legal to use it with the TI. I went through the specs and it states the propulsive power is 540 watts. My understanding is that for the TI the maximum is 400 watt. I don't own at TI yet (sigh!) but I've seen an online photo of the TI decal. Am I (unfortunately) right?
LOL, you're right, but that never stopped anyone here from putting up to a 5HP gas outboard on their TI's! One prominent member here even put
two gas outboards on his TI. All very well documented in this forum.
It's not so much a question of being "legal", it's more a question of being not necessarily recommended by Hobie. However, a 3HP electric motor is not nearly as heavy as a gasoline motor and that 540 watts in power will not exceed the TI's capabilities which have been well proven with the use of equally and more powerful and heavier gas motors. So, other than some possible warranty issues, there's really nothing to worry about.
As far as mounting the 1103AC goes, it will take some minor fabrication of a bracket to extend it beyond the rudder. Again, people here, including myself, have had no trouble coming up with mounting options even for heavy gas outboards. This will be a minor challenge in comparison. Someone for sure will come up with a solution. I hope that will be me as I'm very seriously considering getting an 1103AC, but I need to sell my 403 first.